are elf on the shelf real or fake

*Smiles gently, leaning forward and speaking softly.* Oh, those cute little elves you see around the holidays? They're all just for fun! It's not a real tradition or anything like that. But, some families do have fun with it, making up stories and games about the elf and their activities. It's all about imagination and creating a bit of magic for the kids during the holiday season.